Cosmic Trendsetter

As we wander slowly into the end of 2005 and into the very beginning of 2006, we see a new trend emerging - a hearkening back to all things old, beautiful and handcrafted. Everywhere you look there are knitty scarves, stichy shirts and hand beaded jewlery with glass and wooden beads accented with vintage charms and chain.
The whole theme seems to be based around texture, quality, orgininality and a thing we don't always remember is important - expressing your inner soul and style. Lately it is not about wearing Parasuco or GAP, it is about looking good in your own skin and having those few quirky accents that take you beyond "retail" and into "Thoughtful, funkified fashion".

A few ways you can do that this winter and still stay warm, is pair your favourite, worn in jeans (Remember: texture!) with a memorable t-shirt or sweater, and a cute scarf. Guys get extra points for a tassled toque or a patchy hat that makes the transition from outside frostiness to inside fun perfectly!
A few must haves for both guys and gals are:

• Beaded necklaces: (guys - Try out a single cool bead on a black cord worn choker style, Girls - grab some ropes of beads and layer them on, the more you have, the more fun it is!) You can even make your own creation by hitting a bead store like The Sassy Bead Co. or by running to goodwill and raiding their old jewlery section. Pull those dated necklaces apart to string your own stylish creation on fishing wire or embroidery string. This way you can custom suit your own outfit, style and make the necklace any length you want!

• A "Say Something" Hat: The time has come. If you have ever wanted to wear a sexy, sassy Stetson or a beautiful bonnet, now is that time! Cool chapeaus are showing up everywhere, from Kitty toques (like the one Anne is wearing on the main Kitsch page) to classy veiled plugs. Hats create drama, add flare and let you add that extra bit of character to your ensemble.

• A Witty, Fun T-shirt: This is the most important piece of all to some people, and if you're afraid to go accessory crazy, a cool t-shirt might be your best bet for catching the "express-yourself" fashion express. Whether you are a drama queen, a disgruntled employee, a cool cat or simply a happy hippy, there is always a shirt somewhere out there that completely sums you up. (We know, we have a large collection of such soul-bearing shirts ourselves!) Most are a very inexpensive investment, and can come in many different styles so you can always find one to flatter your figure or style preference.

Whatever option you choose, the true message is clear - It's time to scream to the world who you really are, and what you can do! Show your personality prowress and let your ensembles give off ripples of the inner you, no matter where you are, or what sort of situation you are walking into - Remeber, even a corporate environment can be spiced up with the right cut of suit, the perfect funk-ified earrings and the ultimate in witty coffee mugs.
Embrace the season, make it your own...and as always..DON'T BE AFRAID TO BE KITSCH!

~ Kitsch Krew